Miami 2050: Eight Leaders, Two Conversations About the City's Future

Hosted by Experience Club US in partnership with Miami DDA at Microsoft's Miami HQ, the November 18 forum will bring together leaders for two discussions on South Florida's next growth cycle and its global influence.

Miami's rapid growth has brought new investment, international attention and economic opportunities. It has also intensified pressure on infrastructure, housing, transportation and the city's ability to sustain that expansion. The decisions made over the coming years will help determine what kind of Miami emerges by 2050.

On November 18, Experience Club US and the Miami Downtown Development Authority (Miami DDA) will bring together eight leaders from business, real estate, technology, education, tourism and the creative economy for the Miami 2050 Leaders Forum.

Organized around two panel discussions, the event will explore complementary challenges: building the foundations for Miami's next phase of economic development and translating its international visibility into lasting influence and opportunity. The conversations come as Miami DDA advances its Downtown Miami Master Plan 2050, addressing the future of the urban core, from infrastructure and mobility to economic development, resilience and quality of life. The Leaders Forum takes place at Microsoft Miami HQ, 830 Brickell Plaza, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., with the support of Delta, Wheels Up, BB Americas Bank and Microsoft.

The Decisions Behind Miami's Next Growth Cycle

Investment, Infrastructure, Technology & Talent

What decisions must Miami make today to sustain economic growth, attract talent and remain competitive through 2050? The first panel brings together four leaders whose work intersects with the city's physical, economic and institutional development.

David Martin, CEO of Terra, has built a multibillion-dollar portfolio of residential and commercial properties, collaborating with internationally recognized architects and designers. His emphasis on sustainable development, resilient construction and the integration of real estate with transit and public spaces places him at the center of discussions about Miami's urban transformation.

Joining him is Michaeljohn A. Green, Acting Executive Director of Miami DDA, whose work focuses on economic development, business attraction and the long-term competitiveness of Downtown Miami. His perspective connects investment and urban planning with the priorities of businesses, residents and public institutions.

Technology and talent complete the discussion. Mauricio Ferreira, Global Go-to-Market Leader at Microsoft, brings international experience in artificial intelligence, digital transformation and enterprise solutions. Maryam Laguna Borrego, Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief of Staff at Miami Dade College, oversees strategic and operational functions at one of the nation's largest higher education institutions, including initiatives related to innovation, institutional partnerships and workforce development.

Together, their perspectives raise questions about how Miami can align investment, technology, infrastructure and education to support a more competitive and resilient economy.

From Global Destination to Global Influence

Tourism, Culture, Major Events & the Experience Economy

Miami has established itself as an international destination for tourism, business, culture and major sporting events. The second panel will examine how that visibility can translate into lasting economic influence, while creating opportunities for local businesses and communities.

Rolando Aedo, Chief Operating Officer of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), brings more than three decades of experience in destination marketing, tourism development and institutional partnerships. His work connects Miami's international appeal with an industry that supports jobs, investment and economic activity across the region.

Josh Young, Vice President of Business Operations at F1 Miami Grand Prix, represents the growing role of global sporting events in the city's economy. His experience in sports business, ticketing and commercial operations offers a perspective on how international events can expand Miami's reach and generate opportunities beyond the event itself.

The conversation also includes Barbara Soalheiro, founder of Mesa Company and creator of the Mesa Method. The entrepreneur has worked with global organizations to solve complex business challenges through multidisciplinary collaboration, bringing creativity, innovation and organizational transformation into the discussion.

Marlon A. Hill, Partner at Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, adds the perspective of business and civic leadership. With decades of experience in corporate law, entrepreneurship and community initiatives, Hill's work connects economic development with Miami's diverse population, local businesses and civic institutions.

The discussion will explore how tourism, culture, major events and creative industries can contribute to Miami's economic position, and how the benefits of international recognition can extend across the broader community.

The two panels address different dimensions of the same challenge.

Miami's ability to maintain its global appeal will depend in part on the strength of its infrastructure, business environment and talent base. At the same time, the city's international connections, cultural diversity and major events can contribute to attracting companies, investment and new economic activity.

By bringing together leaders from these sectors, the Miami 2050 Leaders Forum will examine how decisions made today can influence the region's development over the next 25 years.